mountaineering in the US

Question
I have done backpacking in glacier and in the UP of michigan, and I love it. I am almost 18. Want to mountaneer but dont know where to start. Is it best to take a class or something? Where would I find people to climb with, seeing that I live in a small town where no one shares my interest? What would be some starting low level mountains to start after taking the class?

thanks

Answer
Jenk,
When I started out, I was in much the same situation as you are in. Small town and no one to show you or learn with. I went on a month long class with a group from Ashville, NC out to the Tetons. We climbed and backpacked and received instruction as we went. There are many schools, NOLS, American Alpine Institute... There may be some in your area. Check at backpacking stores and such to see what you may find. I do recommend the school part though in that it is much to dangerous to read about and go try.

Good luck with it.

Bob B.